FAQs

How can I get to Buena Vista Surf Club?

We recommend using a private transfer which we are happy to arrange for you. Message us on Whatsapp +505 8485 3176.

If you are driving by yourself please note, the conditions of the roads in Nicaragua can be poor (especially in the rainy season). You will 100% need a 4WD vehicle to get up to the lodge. If you come here with your own vehicle, please make sure you arrive before 6PM, since it is hard(er) to find us in the dark!

The cheapest way to get from San Juan del Sur to Playa Maderas is with the Casa Oro shuttle - this costs $4 a single, $7 a return. Check out the shuttle schedule here.

You can also take a Taxi from San Juan del Sur to Playa Maderas. It’s usually $25USD. We would recommend getting a 4WD so you don’t have to walk up the hill with you bags from Playa Maderas.

Which airport should I fly to?

Managua, Nicaragua (MGA) - we are a 3 hour drive from Managua Airport.

Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR) - we are a 2.5 hour drive from Liberia Airport. This excludes the border crossing time.

Where is the closest atm machine?

San Juan del Sur (20 minutes from Buena Vista Surf Club) has ATM machines where you can withdraw Cordobas or USD. We would usually recommend stopping by there first before coming to our hotel.

You can pay in USD or Cordobas anywhere in Nicaragua. (1USD is around 27Cordobas).

Changing any currency besides USD can become a hassle. We would not advise to bring any other currency besides USD or Cordoba.

Do you accept card payments?

We do accept card payments; however, not all cards seem to work with the Nicaraguan banks, so if you know your card doesn't do well abroad, please bring cash. We accept cash payments in both USD or Cordobas. Please note that there is a small percentage fee imposed by the banks for using card payments. If paying by cash please ensure your dollar bills are in good condition, as any notes with tears, ink stains, etc., are deemed unacceptable in Nicaragua (and therefore here at the lodge). The nearest ATM is located in San Juan del Sur.

Do you allow children?

Unfortunately due to the set-up of the lodge, we do not allow children under the age of 16. However, if you rent out the entire lodge with a family or a group then you are welcome to bring your children. Please feel free to message us directly for this request.

How far from the beach are you?

We are a 7 minute walk downhill to Playa Maderas. To walk back up it usually takes 10 minutes.

What should I bring?

This is jungle living, we always recommend bringing good walking shoes, sunscreen, mosquito spray, a small flashlight and your own shampoo/conditioner. Please think green and bring your own water bottle so you can re-fill it from our filtered water we have in the lodge.

How does tip work at your hotel?

We include a 3% tip at payment, which is split evenly among our local Nicaraguan team. Your tips mean a huge amount to our small team. However, if you would like to opt out of this tip, you can do so.

Is your water safe to drink?

Our hotel water

At Buena Vista Surf Club we have our own water well which we are connected to, and we get the water checked every year. The water is safe to drink for people who have lived in Central America for a while. For guests visiting, we recommend using our water filters which you are welcome to use free of charge.

City Water

The city water in San Juan del Sur and most Nicaraguan towns can contain more chlorine than you might be used to, and drinking it is not recommended.

What is your Reservation Policy?

The quiet and intimate atmosphere at Buena Vista Surf Club is maintained by our deliberate decision to remain small. However, this makes scheduling and booking a vital process. When making a reservation you are committing to occupy the lodge/cabaña(s) for the reserved dates, just as we are making a commitment to have the lodge/cabaña(s) available for you. No-shows, late arrivals and schedule changes can have a big impact on a lodge of just a few rooms. We ask, therefore, that you agree with the terms and conditions of our reservation policy:

Deposits are pre-payments.

Late arrivals are responsible for a cabaña left empty for a night.

Early departures are responsible for the vacant cabaña portion of the reserved stay.

Deposits are non-refundable and we do not give refunds in case of changed travel plans, late arrival or early departure.

You are here at your own risk. BVSC is not responsible for any injuries.

Buena Vista Surf Club is not responsible for any damage to or loss of your belongings.

By sending us your deposit, you confirm that you have read and agreed to the reservation policy of Buena Vista Surf Club.

We ask for a 50% deposit paid via PayPal to confirm your reservation. Here is the link: www.PayPal.Me/buenavistasurfclub

If we have not received your deposit within a week, we have the right to cancel your reservation. Should you encounter any difficulties making the deposit, please contact us.

The remaining amount (50%) needs to be paid upon departure.